• Predeparture
• Training
• Travel & logistics
• Stations
• Station life & activities
  • Alcohol on station
  • Clothing & toiletries
  • Food
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  • Smoking on station
  • Station amenities & operations
    • Buildings & structures
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    • Fire prevention
    • Fuel transfer procedures
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    • Living accommodation
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    • Renewable energy
    • Energy management
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    • Vehicle, small boat & plant operations
    • Waste management
    • FAQs on protecting the environment
      • How do we manage waste in Antarctica?
      • Is any waste burned on station?
      • Which waste is reused on station?
      • What happens to recyclables when they are returned to Australia?
      • Are you reducing fossil fuels on station & in the field?
      • What happens if there is an oil spill?
      • Can solar power be used in Antarctica?
      • What do you do to protect wildlife?
      • Can you feed the wildlife?
    • Environmental improvements with supplies
  • Working in Antarctica
• Field operations
• Family & friends

What happens to recyclables when they are returned to Australia?

Containers labelled for recycling waste Photo: L. Frost

On return to Australia (RTA), recyclable products from the stations are distributed to recycling companies, where they are processed appropriately. The AAD has recycling agreements in place with Collex/Veolia.

If waste products are not sorted correctly, or are contaminated in some way, for example with oil, they may not be able to be recycled, so expeditioners ensure that the items are cleaned and stored appropriately.

There are various bins and containers on station for the different categories of rubbish, as in the photo on the left.